Zhuhai's Must-Visit: New Yuanming Palace in September

September in Zhuhai still carries the lingering charm of summer. With the sea breeze tinged with a hint of saltiness and the occasional break in the afternoon clouds, I decided to dedicate my day to the New Yuanming Palace. This journey into the "One-Day Life in the Qing Palace" combines history, gardens, and performances into a dynamic scroll, filling my phone's photo album with unforgettable images—the grandeur of the Grand Palace Gate, the opulence of the gilded dragon throne under the archway, the stone steps adorned with red lanterns, Qing dynasty royal portraits in the exhibition halls, and the blooming courtyard gardens around every corner. The New Yuanming Palace is modeled after Beijing's Old Summer Palace, recreating 18 of its original 40 scenic spots on a 1:1 scale. The site is divided into three main sections: the Royal Architecture Complex, Jiangnan-style Gardens, and Western Mansions. Located at 164 Lanpu Road, Xiangzhou District, this "reconstruction of history" allows visitors to experience the cultural mosaic of Qing dynasty palace gardens in the humid air of southern China. I began my visit at the Grand Palace Gate. The red walls and golden eaves gleamed brightly under the sunlight. Passing through the archway, I was greeted by a stunning view of glazed tiles and intricate ceilings, with my gaze naturally drawn to the central axis leading to the "Zhengda Guangming" Hall. Ascending the stone steps flanked by strings of red lanterns, the ancient ambiance was perfectly set. The scale and proportions of the halls, both inside and out, felt spacious yet not overwhelming. For those interested in exhibitions, the nearby galleries featuring historical portraits, clothing patterns, and artifacts offer a deep dive into the details of Qing dynasty rituals and traditions—providing both entertainment and insight. The New Yuanming Palace is not just a static garden; it comes alive with performances. The evening "Royal Grand Ceremony" takes place in the palace theater, starting at 5:00 PM on regular days (closed on Wednesdays, except during public holidays). Tickets for adults are priced at approximately 85 RMB. If you want to experience the grandeur of Qing dynasty rituals and culture, this show is highly recommended. The park has also hosted regular or seasonal programs such as "Morning Court of the Emperor," "The Emperor's Southern Tour," and "The Emperor's Selection of Concubines." Be sure to check the daily schedule and announcements for any cancellations before your visit. September in Zhuhai remains quite warm, with daytime temperatures typically ranging from 29–31°C and evening temperatures around 25–27°C. Afternoon showers are common, making the weather humid and hot. Remember to bring a lightweight umbrella and quick-dry clothing. To avoid the hottest hours, consider visiting in the evening to catch the night performances or explore the park during extended hours on Fridays and Saturdays. The illuminated scenery at night is particularly photogenic. Here are some practical tips: Entry to the New Yuanming Palace is currently free, but tickets are required for performances. Most public transportation routes, such as buses 1 and 13, conveniently stop near the park. During peak seasons and holidays, online reservations for entry may be available, so plan ahead to avoid long queues. For photography enthusiasts, I recommend this route: Grand Palace Gate → Symmetrical Axis at Zhengda Guangming Square → Stone Steps with Red Lanterns → Exterior of the Western Mansions → Zodiac Fountain at Haiyan Hall → Inner Courtyard for the "Royal Grand Ceremony." If you're interested in cultural details like me, don't miss the portraits and costume displays in the exhibition halls. Close-up shots of intricate gold embroidery and wave patterns can create more story-rich photos than standard "check-in" pictures. The park also offers costume rentals and photography services, perfect for creating stunning period-style portraits. Finally, cool off with a cup of sour plum juice from the park, find a spot by the water, and let the evening breeze gently sway the curtains. Here, you can transform a heavy historical narrative into a lighthearted stroll—acknowledging the scars of the past without losing sight of its beauty. September is an ideal time to visit the New Yuanming Palace: the sunlight is softer, the crowds are thinner, and you can enjoy a leisurely exploration while catching off-peak performances. If you only have one afternoon in Zhuhai, let it be at the New Yuanming Palace.